Applicant Letter and Development Permit Rationale – David McAllister
Detailed letter from the property owner David McAllister explaining the vision and rationale for the proposed subdivision.
David McAllister
221 Atkins Road
Victoria, BC
V9B-2Z9
January 25th, 2021
Mayor and Council
Town of View Royal
45 View Royal Avenue
V9B-1A6
Dear Mayor and Councillors,
I have owned my property at 221 Atkins Road for over 5 years and have always appreciated the unique features this property possesses. Backing onto a quiet creek and set back amongst the trees it is a truly remarkable location which I hope others will now be able to appreciate, as I always have, with the application I wish to make.
I am proposing a subdivision that also provides a chance for me to potentially retain one of the lots rather than pursuing an outright sale of the entire property as my work is no longer in Victoria. I had previously rented the small existing cottage although this is no longer possible due to its age and condition. Due to my property’s location, an environmental development permit is required in order to proceed with my proposed subdivision.
I would ask you to respectfully consider my application as it would be beneficial for both the neighborhood and the Town of View Royal as a whole, as evidenced by the letters of support signed by my neighbors. The design has been focussed to create more affordable infill housing on a multi-modal corridor while simultaneously working within the existing zoning and enhancing environmental features.
This proposal would provide sustainable and appropriate development that would contribute to the vitality of the Town of View Royal well into the future.
Specifically, the subdivision has been designed to align with the View Royal Official Community Plan in these key aspects:
LU2.1 Residential Character & LU 2.3 Targeted Residential Infill:
- Subdivision can be achieved using existing large lot residential zoning
- Targeted infill ensures that form and character is consistent with neighbouring properties
NE1.5 Aquatic and Riparian Resources and Ecosystems
- Environmental protection has been integrated in design to preserve and enhance the natural features, including retention of trees, within the development area as recommended by the Qualified Environmental Professional.
- The only variances that have been proposed are to locate buildings further toward Atkins Road and retain more natural features in alignment with the recommendations of the Qualified Environmental Professional and development permit guidelines.
- Redevelopment would increase the setback from the riparian area relative to the location of the existing dwelling
- Reduced environmental impact on the subdivided lots and adjacent lands would also result from the extension of sanitary sewer to replace existing septic systems
HS1.10 Affordability by Design and HS2.2 Infill Housing
- The proposed infill subdivision, resulting in a total of 3 smaller lots would create more affordable housing options and enhance diversity of housing stock.
- Enhanced financial sustainability for the municipality of View Royal due to an anticipated tripling of annual property tax revenue derived from the subject lands
TR1.1 Multi-modal Transportation Systems TR1.3 Cycling Infrastructure and TR1.4)-Transit Services
- The property is located on an existing multi-modal transportation corridor including transit services
- The property is located in close proximity to the Galloping Goose Trail supporting active transportation options
- Donation of a bench for adjacent BC Transit stop will enhance accessibility of transit within the neighborhood.
- The proximity of the proposed lots to both active transportation and transit corridors is expected to result in lower GHG emissions
In addition to alignment with the Official Community Plan the subdivision and development permit applications would also be beneficial due to the following amenities and improvements that I would be willing to offer:
- Offer of a 2% purchase discount to any existing residents within the neighborhood or those they refer on the proposed list price prior to publicly listing to enhance neighborhood community.
- Donation of the existing home to the Town of View Royal Fire department for training purposes prior to demolition
- Extension of the sanitary sewer system to the boundary of 225 Atkins Road enhancing the integrity of the riparian area by allowing for removal of the septic system on this and adjacent properties.
- Donation of a bench for a nearby bus stop enhancing accessibility to transit for seniors.
The substantial benefits of the subdivision to the neighborhood and the Town, in terms of environmental, social and financial sustainability, are evident and reinforced by the alignment of the application with the View Royal Official Community Plan as well as the proposed amenities.
I would appreciate your thoughtful consideration of this application.
Sincerely,
David McAllister